Washer and dryer store with delivery
Run a small local shop selling new, open-box and used washers and dryers, with delivery and hookup.
- $45k-150k
- Full-time
- Own premises
- Licence or permit needed
Estimates for a small start in the US, not guarantees.
Official data
5,433 US businesses with employees in this field, -2.4% in a year
NAICS 443141 “Household appliance stores”. Source: U.S. Census Bureau, County Business Patterns 2023.
What it is
A small storefront or showroom unit selling laundry machines to local households and landlords. You can stock open-box, scratch-and-dent and reconditioned units alongside new ones, and offer delivery, installation and haul-away of the old machine.
Your first three steps
- Price out a small retail or flex unit near busy roads and ask local distributors and liquidators about dealer accounts and open-box stock
- Form your LLC, get an EIN, and ask your state about a seller's permit or resale certificate so you can buy stock without paying sales tax
- Line up a delivery van or partner courier, plus a licensed installer for gas dryer hookups, then list your first machines online and in the window
Who pays
Homeowners, renters replacing a broken machine, landlords furnishing rentals, and movers or property managers buying in bulk.
How it makes money
Margin on each machine sold, plus fees for delivery, installation, haul-away, extended protection plans and accessories like hoses and vent kits.
Skills that help
- Friendly, honest selling
- Basic knowledge of washer and dryer types
- Managing stock and suppliers
- Handling heavy items safely
Watch out for
- Startup costs add up quickly: stock of roughly 30-60 machines, lease deposit and fit-out, a used delivery van, a dolly and straps, and insurance. A leaner start with fewer machines, used stock only or a partner courier sits at the low end
- General liability insurance, plus commercial auto cover for the delivery van
- Sales tax registration and collection rules in your state
- Gas dryer hookups may need a licensed plumber or gas fitter, check your state and local rules
- Workers' compensation insurance once you hire helpers, and the risk of back injuries from lifting
- Whether your state or city has rules for selling used or reconditioned appliances and for old machine disposal
- Returns and warranty claims on used units, so set clear written terms
Deep research report · US
Everything you need to start: washer and dryer store with delivery
Researched with live web search for United States: real startup prices, the licences and rules, what others charge, a break-even example, how to find your first customers and a 30-day launch plan. With sources.
- Startup costs with real prices
- Licences, registration and rules
- Pricing: what others charge
- Break-even example
- Finding your first customers
- 30-day launch plan
- Risks and how to reduce them
Questions people ask
How much does it cost to open a washer and dryer store?
Startup costs are typically around $45,000 to $150,000, depending on how many machines you stock, your lease deposit and fit-out, a delivery van and insurance. A leaner start with fewer machines or used stock sits at the low end.
How much can a washer and dryer store make?
Monthly revenue is typically around $8,000 to $40,000, depending on stock, location, your mix of new and used units, and delivery and hookup work. Expect to work around 35 hours a week or more.
What rules should I check before selling washers and dryers?
Check sales tax registration in your state, general liability and commercial auto insurance, and whether gas dryer hookups need a licensed professional. Also check rules on selling used appliances and old machine disposal, and set clear warranty terms.
Other ways to run this business
Similar retail ideas
Local bait and tackle shop
Open a small shop selling rods, lures, bait and outdoor gear to anglers and hunters near a lake, river or popular fishing area.
- $40k-150k
- Full-time
- Own premises
Neighborhood cutlery and kitchen knife shop
Open a small store where home cooks and chefs can handle knives, get advice and have their blades sharpened.
- $40k-150k
- Full-time
- Own premises
Bedroom furniture showroom
Open a small local store selling beds, dressers and wardrobes to people furnishing their bedrooms.
- $40k-150k
- Full-time
- Own premises
Fine jewelry and watch wholesaler for independent jewelers
Supply fine jewelry and watches to independent jewelry stores, selling at trade shows and visiting stores in your region.
- $40k-150k
- Part-time
- Out and about
Small furniture showroom
Open a local showroom selling sofas, tables and beds to homeowners and small offices nearby.
- $30k-150k
- Full-time
- Own premises
Full-time vending route business
Run a larger route of snack, drink and specialty machines in offices, schools and public sites, with a small stockroom.
- $40k-150k
- Full-time
- Out and about